Easy Steps To Attain True Happiness

Last night before bed I was reading on one of my favorite sites, Lifehack - Tips for Life. As I was scrolling through the different articles one caught my eye right away; 19 Steps To True Happiness That Everyone Is Looking For. 

Reading through there were 9 steps in which I felt I could relate to best:
>>Don't forget to check out the other 10 at the link above<<

1) Stop comparing yourself to others and false ideals
All comparing yourself to someone else does is make you feel insecure. What's the point of making yourself feel bad? The answer to that is there is no point. Almost everything we compare ourselves to today is not real but 99% of the time we go right ahead and compare anyways. The harsh reality is we all are far from perfect but we are all perfect in our own way. Be proud of who you are; there is no other you and you have a lot to offer. 

2) Do what you love
Don't be afraid to stand out. I know that completely defies what society says but really, it's okay! If you've ever felt ashamed to pursue what you love because of what others will think, you are limiting your happiness. There's no shame in breaking the status quo. 

3) Don't take yourself too seriously
It's no secret we all only have so much time on this planet. This is why it is important to take each day for what it is and not get bogged down. Life can be hard and complicated but shake it of with a smile, find something to laugh about and your day can be turned around.

4) Be selfless and avoid being selfish
The amount of selfishness in today's world is almost sickening. People are scared to turn their backs in lieu of being walked over and used. Personal gain is a sad obsession. The great satisfaction that can be received by doing things for others is often forgotten. Make it a goal to do what you do for reasons beyond just what you can get out of it. 

5) Be grateful for what you have
If you are always longing for something you do not have you will never be satisfied. You will be anchored down from moving forward. There is no sense in basing your life on objects. Growth is so much more then the things you possess. There is someone out there who would love to have all you do. Appreciate everything, no matter what. 

6) Learn to be patient; things will happen at the right time
People do things and expect to see immediate reward however, everything has its time. It is important to work hard regardless of what is simultaneously being achieved. Keep putting one foot in front of the other and what is meant to happen, will, when it should.

7) Become forgiving of yourself and of other's imperfections
There will be people in life you will get along with and some you will not. You are not meant to be the best of friends with everyone who crosses your path but everyone does cross your path for a reason. This being the case you cannot judge people's imperfections (opinion or values that don't line up with yours) but instead you have to be appreciative of what you learn from the relationship. There also is a personal element to this, you have imperfections to others. However, pretending to be someone you are not is unhealthy so be acceptive of the ways you differ as well. 

8) Be fascinated with the world you live in

There is so much in the world that goes unnoticed and that could lead you somewhere you never thought possible. What you are going through is momentary. There is always something new to experience. There is always a new opportunity to encounter. 

And last but not least... 

9) Smile more often
It takes more muscles to frown then it does to smile. Have you ever heard that phrase? I know I have many times and it is true! So why not smile? Smiling just for the sake of smiling helps you and those around you be happier. When you're having a bad day, see how you have the ability to control your happiness by turning that frown upside down!

What steps can you best relate to that you feel you need in your life?